Air blowing system

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of providing an air blowing system with which it is possible to freely adjust the flow of air in an air-conditioned space. This air blowing system (1) comprises a plurality of air blowing devices (3) installed on the ceiling of an air-conditioned space (9). Each of the plurality of air blowing devices (3) has a housing (31), a straightening plate (32), and a driving mechanism (33). The housing (31) is formed in a box shape having an inner space (310), and has an intake port (31g) that feeds supply air into the inner space (310), an air blowing port (31h) for blowing out, as blowing air to the air-conditioned space (9), the supply air that has passed through the inner space (310), and a throttle part (31i) that narrows the inner space (310) toward the circumferential edge of the air blowing port (31h). The straightening plate (32) is disposed between the intake port (31g) and the air blowing port (31h). The driving mechanism (33) moves the straightening plate (32).

Description

ventilation system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a ventilation system.

[0002] The air purifier of Patent Document 1 includes a casing having an air inlet and an air outlet, and a guide plate provided inside the casing. The guide plate is located approximately in the center of the casing, and a gap is provided between the guide plate and the casing's peripheral plate to allow air to pass through. Furthermore, a baffle plate covering the inner periphery of the air outlet is provided below the guide plate. The guide plate guides air sent into the casing by the fan toward the peripheral plate and sends it toward the air outlet through the gap. An opening is formed at a position corresponding to the center of the air outlet's mouth shape, and the baffle plate straightens the air flow toward the opening.

[0003] In recent years, there has been a demand for adjusting the air flow within an air-conditioned space.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-112755

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an air blowing system that can freely adjust the air flow within an air-conditioned space.

[0006] An air blowing system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a plurality of air blowing devices installed on the ceiling of an air-conditioned space. Each of the plurality of air blowing devices includes a housing, a rectifying vane, and a drive mechanism. The housing is formed in a box shape with an internal space and includes an air intake port for feeding supply air into the internal space, an air outlet port for blowing the supply air that has passed through the internal space into the air-conditioned space as blown air, and a constriction portion that narrows the internal space toward the periphery of the air outlet port. The rectifying vane is disposed between the air intake port and the air outlet port. The drive mechanism moves the rectifying vane.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an air blowing system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of an air blower and an air conditioning device provided in the air blowing system. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of an air blower and an air conditioning device provided in the air blowing system. FIG. 4 is a side view showing an air blower and an air conditioning device provided in the air blowing system. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an air blower provided in the air blowing system. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an air blower provided in the air blowing system. FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a rectifying plate provided in the air blower. FIG. 8 is a partially cutaway side view showing the mounting structure of the rectifying plate. FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the air blower. FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view showing another operation of the air blower. FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the stirring mode of the air blowing system. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of a human presence sensor in the air blowing system. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the spot mode of the air blowing system. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an air blowing system according to a first modified example. FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the air blowing system of the second modified example.

[0008] The present disclosure relates generally to a ventilation system, and more particularly to a ventilation system including a plurality of ventilation devices.

[0009] The embodiment described below is merely an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiment, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0010] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other are defined in Figure 5. For convenience, one of the two directions along the X-axis is referred to as the rightward direction, and the other as the leftward direction. Furthermore, one of the two directions along the Y-axis is referred to as the forward direction, and the other as the backward direction. Furthermore, one of the two directions along the Z-axis is referred to as the upward direction, and the other as the downward direction. Note that the above directions do not limit the actual usage of the air blowing system, but are used to promote understanding of the air blowing system.

[0011] (Embodiment) (1) Overview of the Air Blowing System Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of an air blowing system 1 according to this embodiment. The air blowing system 1 is used in facilities such as office buildings, offices, stores, factories, and commercial facilities. The air blowing system 1 may also be used in apartment buildings, detached houses, and the like.

[0012] The air blowing system 1 includes a plurality of air blowers 3 (four in FIG. 1 ). As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the plurality of air blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 of the air-conditioned space 9. As shown in FIG. 1 , each of the plurality of air blowers 3 includes a housing 31, a rectifying vane 32, and a drive mechanism 33. The housing 31 is formed in a box shape having an internal space 310. The housing 31 includes an air intake 31g for feeding supply air A11 (see FIG. 4 ) into the internal space 310, an air outlet 31h for blowing the supply air A11 that has passed through the internal space 310 into the air-conditioned space 9 as blown air A1 (see FIG. 4 ), and a throttle portion 31i for narrowing the internal space 310 toward the periphery of the air outlet 31h. The rectifying vane 32 is disposed between the air intake 31g and the air outlet 31h. The drive mechanism 33 moves the rectifying vane 32.

[0013] The above-described blower device 3 can make the blown-out air A1 (see FIGS. 9A and 9B ) a directional airflow by using the straightening vane 32 disposed between the air intake 31g and the air outlet 31h. Furthermore, the blower device 3 can control the directionality of the blown-out air A1 by moving the straightening vane 32 using the drive mechanism 33. Therefore, the air blowing system 1 including multiple blowers 3 can freely adjust the air flow in the air-conditioned space 9.

[0014] (2) Configuration of the Air Blowing System As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the air blowing system 1 includes an air conditioner 2, four air blowers 3, a control device 4, a duct 5, a temperature detection unit 6, and a human detection unit 7.

[0015] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the four blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 of the air-conditioned space 9. The air-conditioned space 9 is shaped like a rectangular box. The four blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 at locations corresponding to the four vertices of the rectangle. That is, the four blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 so as not to be aligned on the same straight line. As shown in Figure 4, the blowers 3 are attached to the ceiling 91 by penetrating it, and blow out the blown air A1 downward from the ceiling 91. When distinguishing between the four blowers 3, the four blowers 3 are referred to as blowers 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, respectively. In Figures 2 and 3, the blowers 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D are arranged in the order 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D in a counterclockwise direction when viewed from above.

[0016] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the air conditioner 2 is installed on the ceiling 91 of the air-conditioned space 9. The air conditioner 2 is installed in a location on the ceiling 91 surrounded by four air blowers 3. In Figures 2 and 3, the air conditioner 2 is positioned closer to the air blowers 3C and 3D than to the air blowers 3A and 3B. As shown in Figure 4, the air conditioner 2 is attached to the ceiling 91 by penetrating it, draws in air A2 from the air-conditioned space 9, adjusts the temperature of the drawn-in air A2 to generate conditioned air as supply air A11, and sends the supply air A11 to the duct 5.

[0017] As shown in Figure 2, the duct 5 is arranged in the attic space 92 above the ceiling 91. The air conditioner 2 and the blower 3 are connected to each other via the duct 5. The duct 5 is cylindrical, and supply air A11 flows through the duct 5. Each of the four blower devices 3 is connected to the duct 5, receives supply air A11 from the duct 5, and blows the supply air A11, which passes through the internal space 310, into the air-conditioned space 9 as blown air A1.

[0018] The control device 4 individually controls the four air blowers 3 to adjust the air flow within the air-conditioned space 9. For example, the control device 4 controls the air blowers 3 based on the detection results of the temperature detection unit 6 and the human detection unit 7.

[0019] 4 to 8, the blower 3 includes a housing 31, a rectifying plate 32, and a drive mechanism 33. The drive mechanism 33 is provided in the housing 31, and the rectifying plate 32 is supported by the drive mechanism 33 so as to be movable.

[0020] (2.1.1) Housing The housing 31 is formed in the shape of a hollow rectangular box, primarily made of zinc steel plate, and includes a left surface (side surface) 31a, a right surface (side surface) 31b, a front surface (side surface) 31c, a rear surface (side surface) 31d, an upper end surface (first end surface) 31e, and a lower end surface (second end surface) 31f. The housing 31 has an internal space 310 surrounded by the left surface 31a, the right surface 31b, the front surface 31c, the rear surface 31d, the upper end surface 31e, and the lower end surface 31f. The left surface 31a and the right surface 31b face each other in the left-right direction along the X axis. The front surface 31c and the rear surface 31d face each other in the front-rear direction along the Y axis. The upper end surface 31e and the lower end surface 31f face each other in the up-down direction along the Z axis.

[0021] A cylindrical air intake port 31g is provided in the center of the upper end surface 31e. The upper end of the air intake port 31g is connected to the duct 5, and the lower end of the air intake port 31g is spatially continuous with the internal space 310. The supply air A11 (see FIG. 4) sent from the air conditioner 2 to the duct 5 passes through the air intake port 31g and is blown downward into the internal space 310 of the housing 31.

[0022] A rectangular opening is formed on the lower end surface 31f as an air outlet 31h. The air outlet 31h is a rectangular plane along the X-Y plane (a plane defined by the X and Y axes), and the axial direction of the air outlet 31h is along the Z axis. A flange 31j constituting a throttling portion 31i is formed on the periphery of the air outlet 31h. The flange 31i narrows the portion of the internal space 310 on the air outlet 31h side so as to narrow the internal space 310 toward the periphery of the air outlet 31h. Alternatively, the flange 31i expands the internal space 310 from the periphery of the air outlet 31h to the outside of the air outlet 31h. The flange 31j, which is an example of a throttling portion 31i, extends in a flange-like shape along the X-Y plane from the lower ends of the left surface 31a, right surface 31b, front surface 31c, and rear surface 31d toward the air outlet 31h. That is, the lower end surface 31f has a flange 31j that serves as a narrowing portion 31i and extends from the periphery of the air outlet 31h to the left surface 31a, right surface 31b, front surface 31c, and rear surface 31d.

[0023] In this embodiment, the left surface 31 a, the right surface 31 b, the front surface 31 c, the rear surface 31 d, and the flange 31 j of the housing 31 are preferably made of a single galvanized steel plate that has been processed into a metal sheet. Alternatively, the left surface 31 a, the right surface 31 b, the front surface 31 c, the rear surface 31 d, the top surface 31 e, and the flange 31 j of the housing 31 may be made of a single galvanized steel plate that has been processed into a metal sheet.

[0024] (2.1.2) Driving Mechanism The driving mechanism 33 includes an electric actuator 33a and a support guide 33b.

[0025] The electric actuator 33a is attached to the front side of the upper end surface 31e of the housing 31. The electric actuator 33a includes an electric motor, a ball screw extending left and right along the X axis, a lead nut fitted to the ball screw, and a rod attached to the lead nut. The rotational force of the electric motor is transmitted to the ball screw, and the ball screw rotates around the axis of the ball screw as its rotation axis. The lead nut moves left along the X axis when the ball screw rotates in one direction, and moves right along the X axis when the ball screw rotates in the other direction. A rod is attached to the lead nut, and like the lead nut, the rod also moves along the X axis in response to the rotation of the ball screw.

[0026] An opening extending along the X-axis is formed in the upper end surface 31e of the housing 31, facing the electric actuator 33a. The upper ends of two rod-shaped supports, a first support and a second support, are connected to the rod of the electric actuator 33a. The lower ends of the first support and the second support are inserted into the internal space 310 through the opening in the upper end surface 31e and attached to the rectifying plate 32. For example, in FIG. 8 , an opening 31k is formed along the X-axis in the upper end surface 31e of the housing 31. The first support 33c is inserted through the opening 31k, and the upper end of the first support 33c is connected to the rod of the electric actuator 33a, and the lower end of the first support 33c is attached to the rectifying plate 32. A second support (not shown) is also attached to the rectifying plate 32, similar to the first support 33c.

[0027] The support guide 33b is attached to the rear side of the upper end surface 31e of the housing 31. The support guide 33b includes a linear rail and a slider attached to the rail. The rail is attached to extend left and right along the X-axis. The slider moves linearly left and right along the rail. In other words, the extension direction of the rail is the same as the displacement direction of the electric actuator 33a. An opening extending along the X-axis facing the support guide 33b is formed in the upper end surface 31e of the housing 31. The upper end of a third support, which is a rod-shaped support, is connected to the slider of the support guide 33b. The lower end of the third support is inserted into the internal space 310 through the opening in the upper end surface 31e and is attached to the rectifying plate 32. A third support (not shown) is also attached to the rectifying plate 32 in the same manner as the first support 33c (see FIG. 8).

[0028] (2.1.3) Straightening Plate The straightening plate 32 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate by resin molding using polypropylene as a material.

[0029] 7, the current plate 32 has a first surface 32a and a second surface 32b that face each other in the thickness direction, and is disposed in the internal space 310 so that the first surface 32a faces the upper end surface 31e and the second surface 32b faces the lower end surface 31f. Two circular insertion holes 32c, 32d are formed side by side in the left-right direction on the front side of the current plate 32. One circular insertion hole 32e is formed on the rear side of the current plate 32, midway between the left and right directions.

[0030] The lower end of the first support 33c of the electric actuator 33a abuts against the first surface 32a of the current plate 32 so as to face the insertion hole 32c. The lower end of the second support of the electric actuator 33a abuts against the first surface 32a of the current plate 32 so as to face the insertion hole 32d. The lower end of the third support of the support guide 33b abuts against the first surface 32a of the current plate 32 so as to face the insertion hole 32e. A screw hole is formed along the Z axis at the lower end of each of the first to third supports, and three screws 35 (see FIG. 6) are inserted into the insertion holes 32c to 32e from below the current plate 32 (the side of the second surface 32b) and screwed into the respective screw holes of the first to third supports. As a result, the heads 35a of the screws 35 engage with the second surface 32b, and the straightening plate 32 is fixed to the first to third supports by being sandwiched between the heads 35a of the three screws 35 and the lower ends of the first to third supports.

[0031] 8, for example, the first support 33c is inserted through the opening 31k, and the upper end of the first support 33c is connected to the rod of the electric actuator 33a. The lower end of the first support 33c abuts against the first surface 32a of the current plate 32 so as to face the insertion hole 32c. Then, a screw 35 is inserted through the insertion hole 32c from below the current plate 32 (the side of the second surface 32b) and screwed into the threaded hole of the first support 33c. As a result, the current plate 32 is sandwiched between the head 35a of the screw 35 and the lower end of the first support 33c.

[0032] In addition, the lower end of the second support abuts against the first surface 32a of the straightening plate 32 so as to face the insertion hole 32d, and the lower end of the third support abuts against the first surface 32a of the straightening plate 32 so as to face the insertion hole 32e, and screws 35 are screwed into the respective screw holes of the second support and the third support (see Figure 6).

[0033] Therefore, when the rod of the electric actuator 33a moves along the X-axis, the rectifying vane 32 also slides along the X-axis. That is, the rectifying vane 32 is slid by the drive mechanism 33 in a direction intersecting the Z-axis that is normal to the air outlet 31h.

[0034] (2.1.4) Installation of the Fan 3 As shown in Fig. 4, the fan 3 is recessed into a mounting hole 91a in a ceiling 91. Two mounting brackets 34 aligned along the Y axis are attached to each of the left and right surfaces 31a, 31b of the housing 31, as shown in Figs. 5 and 6. Two mounting brackets 34 aligned along the X axis are attached to each of the front and rear surfaces 31c, 31d, as shown in Figs. 5 and 6. The mounting brackets 34 are L-shaped and made of metal such as aluminum or stainless steel, and are fixed to the back surface (top surface) of the ceiling 91 in the attic space 92 with screws.

[0035] (2.1.5) Directivity of blown air As described above, supply air A11 is supplied from duct 5 to internal space 310 of housing 31 of blower device 3. Supply air A11 that has passed through internal space 310 is blown downward from air outlet 31h of blower device 3 as blown air A1. Then, drive mechanism 33 changes the sliding position of straightening vane 32 to adjust the directionality of blown air A1 blown out from air outlet 31h.

[0036] The directivity of the blown air A1 will be described below with reference to Figures 9A and 9B. Note that in Figures 9A and 9B, the drive mechanism 33, mounting bracket 34, and screws 35 of the blower device 3 are omitted.

[0037] In FIG. 9A , the slide position of the rectifying vane 32 is controlled to the center of the internal space 310. A gap constituting a communication section 311 is formed between the left end 32f of the rectifying vane 32 and the left surface 31a of the housing 31. A gap constituting a communication section 312 is formed between the right end 32g of the rectifying vane 32 and the right surface 31b of the housing 31. The communication sections 311 and 312 have the same width along the X axis. That is, on both the left and right sides of the rectifying vane 32, gaps are formed that connect the space on the first surface 32a side (the upper space of the housing 31) with the space on the second surface 32b side (the lower space of the housing 31). In this case, the supply air A11 supplied from top to bottom into the internal space 310 through the air intake port 31g on the upper end surface 31e is divided into an airflow F1 flowing leftward along the first surface 32a of the rectifying vane 32 and an airflow F2 flowing rightward. The airflow F1 passes through the communication portion 311 from top to bottom, and then travels to the right between the second surface 32b of the current rectifying vane 32 and the flange 31j. The airflow F2 passes through the communication portion 312 from top to bottom, and then travels to the left between the second surface 32b of the current rectifying vane 32 and the flange 31j. The airflows F1 and F2 collide with each other and then become the blown air A1 that is blown downward from the air outlet 31h. That is, the blown air A1 is blown directly below the air outlet 31h. In other words, the directionality of the blown air A1 is generated in the directly downward direction.

[0038] In FIG. 9B , the sliding position of the current rectifying plate 32 is controlled to be biased to the right side of the internal space 310. A gap constituting a communication section 313 is formed between the left end 32f of the current rectifying plate 32 and the left surface 31a of the housing 31. The right end 32g of the current rectifying plate 32 abuts the right surface 31b of the housing 31. That is, a gap is formed on the left side of the current rectifying plate 32, connecting the space on the first surface 32a side (the upper space of the housing 31) with the space on the second surface 32b side (the lower space of the housing 31). However, no gap is formed on the right side of the current rectifying plate 32, connecting the space on the first surface 32a side with the space on the second surface 32b side. In this case, the supply air A11 supplied from top to bottom into the internal space 310 through the air intake port 31g on the upper end surface 31e becomes an airflow F3 that flows leftward along the first surface 32a of the current rectifying plate 32. After passing through the communication portion 313 from top to bottom, the airflow F3 travels to the right between the second surface 32b of the straightening plate 32 and the flange portion 31j. The airflow F3 becomes the blown air A1 that is blown out obliquely to the lower right from the air outlet 31h. That is, the blown air A1 is blown out obliquely to the lower right from the air outlet 31h. In other words, the directionality of the blown air A1 is generated in the oblique direction to the lower right.

[0039] Furthermore, when the slide position of the straightening plate 32 is controlled to be biased to the left side of the internal space 310, the blown air A1 is blown out from the air outlet 31h in a diagonal direction to the lower left, and the directionality of the blown air A1 is generated in a diagonal direction to the lower left.

[0040] In this way, the drive mechanism 33 slides the current rectifier vane 32 so as to change the width of the communication portion (311, 313), which is a gap formed between the left surface 31a of the housing 31 and the left end 32f of the current rectifier vane 32, and the communication portion (312), which is a gap formed between the right surface 31b of the housing 31 and the right end 32g of the current rectifier vane 32. The blower 3 can control the directionality of the blown air A1 blown out from the air outlet 31h by changing the sliding position of the current rectifier vane 32. Furthermore, by adopting a simple configuration for sliding the current rectifier vane 32, the blower 3 can easily control the directionality of the blown air A1.

[0041] Furthermore, by providing the flange 31j around the periphery of the air outlet 31h, the air blower 3 can make the airflow A1 blown out from the air outlet 31h more directional than when the flange 31j is not provided. That is, the flange 31j has the function of increasing the directionality of the airflow A1 blown out from the air outlet 31h, and the air blower 3 can concentrate the airflow A1 blown out from the air outlet 31h in a narrow area. In other words, the airflow A1 reaches only the targeted area and is less likely to diffuse to the surroundings.

[0042] (2.2) Air Conditioner and Duct As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the air conditioner 2 is installed on the ceiling 91 in a location surrounded by four blowers 3. As shown in FIG. 4 , the air conditioner 2 is attached to the ceiling 91 by penetrating it. The air conditioner 2 draws in air A2 from the air-conditioned space 9, adjusts the temperature of the drawn-in air A2 to generate conditioned air, and sends the conditioned air to the duct 5 as supply air A11. The supply air A11 sent to the duct 5 is supplied to the blower 3, which then blows it into the air-conditioned space 9 as blown air A1. That is, the supply air A11 is sent from the intake port 31g of the blower 3 into the interior space 310 and is blown out from the outlet 31h of the blower 3 as blown air A1. Thus, the air conditioner 2 has the function of cooling or heating the air-conditioned space 9.

[0043] Therefore, the air blowing system 1 can control the air-conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 9 by blowing the temperature-adjusted supply air A11 into the air-conditioned space 9 as the blown air A1. Furthermore, by connecting the air blowing device 3 to the duct 5, the supply air A11 can be easily supplied to the air blowing device 3.

[0044] The air conditioner 2 and each of the four blowers 3 are connected by a plurality of ducts 5 that are independent of one another. The air conditioner 2 can adjust the amount of supply air A11 supplied to each of the four blowers 3 for each blower 3. For example, it is possible to supply supply air A11 to only one of the four blowers 3, or to make the amount of supply air A11 supplied to each of the four blowers 3 different from one another.

[0045] The air conditioner 2 may generate, as the supply air A11, conditioned air in which not only the temperature but also at least one of the humidity, cleanliness, fragrance, and virus amount has been adjusted.

[0046] (2.3) Temperature Detection Unit The temperature detection unit 6 detects the temperature distribution in the air-conditioned space 9. Specifically, the temperature detection unit 6 includes a plurality of temperature sensors 61 (see FIG. 3 ) attached to a plurality of locations in the air-conditioned space 9. The plurality of temperature sensors 61 are distributed and arranged in the upper and lower parts of the air-conditioned space 9. The temperature detection unit 6 then generates temperature distribution data including measurement data of the temperatures measured by the plurality of temperature sensors 61. The temperature distribution data corresponds to the detection result of the temperature distribution in the air-conditioned space 9. The temperature detection unit 6 outputs the temperature distribution data of the air-conditioned space 9 to the control device 4.

[0047] (2.4) Human Detection Unit The human detection unit 7 detects people present in the air-conditioned space 9. Specifically, the human detection unit 7 includes multiple human detection sensors 71 (see FIG. 3 ) installed in the air-conditioned space 9. The multiple human detection sensors 71 detect the presence or absence of people in different detection areas within the air-conditioned space 9. The human detection unit 7 generates human detection data including the detection results of each of the multiple human detection sensors 71. The human detection data corresponds to the detection results of people in the air-conditioned space 9. The human detection unit 7 outputs the human detection data for the air-conditioned space 9 to the control device 4.

[0048] The human presence sensor 71 is configured using at least one of a pyroelectric sensor, a radio wave sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a camera, and the like.

[0049] (2.5) Control Device The control device 4 preferably includes a computer system. That is, in the control device 4, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) reads and executes programs stored in memory, thereby realizing some or all of the functions of the control device 4. The control device 4 mainly includes a processor that operates according to a program. The type of processor is not important as long as it can realize functions by executing a program. The processor is composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or an LSI (Large Scale Integration). Although the terms IC and LSI are used here, the term may be changed depending on the degree of integration, and may be called a system LSI, a VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration), or an ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), which are programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or reconfigurable logic devices that can reconfigure the connections within the LSI or set up circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be used for the same purpose. The electronic circuits may be integrated on a single chip or may be provided on multiple chips, and the multiple chips may be arranged in a concentrated manner or in a distributed manner.

[0050] The control device 4 may be realized by either a single computer device or a plurality of computers linked to each other. The control device 4 may also be constructed as a cloud computing system.

[0051] The control device 4 controls the drive mechanism 33 of the air blower 3 by performing wired or wireless communication with the air blower 3. The wired communication is, for example, via a twisted pair cable, a dedicated communication line, or a LAN (Local Area Network) cable. The wireless communication is, for example, wireless communication conforming to standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or low-power wireless (specified low-power wireless) that does not require a license.

[0052] Specifically, the control device 4 individually controls the drive mechanisms 33 of the four air blowers 3 based on the detection results of the temperature detection unit 6 and the human detection unit 7. More specifically, the control device 4 adjusts the slide position of the rectifying vane 32 by controlling the position of the rod of the electric actuator 33a of the drive mechanism 33 of the air blower 3. That is, the control device 4 controls the position of the electric actuator 33a to control the position of the rectifying vane 32. If the position of the rectifying vane 32 along the X-axis is defined as the slide position, the slide position of the rectifying vane 32 is adjusted by the control device 4 controlling the position of the electric actuator 33a.

[0053] The control device 4 can switch the control mode for controlling each of the drive mechanisms 33 (plurality of drive mechanisms 33) of the four air blowers 3. The control modes of the control device 4 are agitation mode and spot mode. The agitation mode is a control mode for generating a vortex airflow B1 (see FIG. 10 ) in the air-conditioned space 9. The spot mode is a control mode for concentrating the blown air A1 in a part of the air-conditioned space 9. In other words, the control device 4 can set the agitation mode or the spot mode as the control mode.

[0054] The control device 4 also controls the air conditioners 2 by performing wired or wireless communication with the air conditioners 2. That is, the control device 4 can control the amount of supply air A11 supplied to each of the four blowers 3 for each blower 3.

[0055] The control device 4 controls the air conditioner 2 and the blower 3 to adjust the air-conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 9 .

[0056] The stirring mode and the spot mode will be described below. The control mode may be switched manually by a human operation, or automatically based on schedule information or the like.

[0057] (2.5.1) Stirring Mode Based on the temperature distribution data, the control device 4 determines whether or not there is a bias (temperature unevenness) in the temperature distribution in the air-conditioned space 9. For example, if the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures in the air-conditioned space 9 is equal to or greater than a certain value, the control device 4 determines that there is a temperature unevenness in the air-conditioned space 9. Alternatively, if the standard deviation or variance of the multiple temperatures measured by the multiple temperature sensors 61 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control device 4 determines that there is a temperature unevenness in the air-conditioned space 9.

[0058] When the control device 4 determines that temperature unevenness has occurred in the air-conditioned space 9 while the control mode is the stirring mode, it controls the air conditioner 2 to supply supply air A11 to each of the four air blowers 3. Furthermore, the control device 4 controls each drive mechanism 33 so that the slide positions of the straightening vanes 32 of each of the four air blowers 3 are biased in the same direction (left or right in FIG. 9B ) in the left-right direction of each housing 31 (see FIG. 9B ).

[0059] Specifically, each of the straightening vanes 32 of the four air blowers 3 generates a communication section 313 on the side opposite to the side where the adjacent air blower 3 is located, counterclockwise as viewed from above, of two adjacent air blowers 3. That is, the straightening vane 32 slides toward the side where the adjacent air blower 3 is located, counterclockwise as viewed from above, and generates a communication section 313 on the side opposite to the sliding direction. As a result, the directionality of the blown air A1 blown out from each of the four air blowers 3 is generated toward the side of the adjacent air blower 3, counterclockwise as viewed from above, as shown in FIG. 10 . As a result, a vortex airflow B1 flowing counterclockwise is generated in the air-conditioned space 9, and the vortex airflow B1 agitates the air in the air-conditioned space 9, thereby suppressing temperature unevenness in the air-conditioned space 9.

[0060] Furthermore, each of the straightening vanes 32 of the four air blowers 3 may generate a communication section 313 on the side opposite to the side where the adjacent air blower 3 is located clockwise when viewed from above, out of two adjacent air blowers 3. That is, the straightening vane 32 slides toward the side where the adjacent air blower 3 is located clockwise when viewed from above, and generates a communication section 313 on the side opposite to the sliding direction. As a result, the directionality of the blown air A1 blown out from each of the four air blowers 3 is generated toward the side of the adjacent air blower 3 clockwise when viewed from above. As a result, a vortex airflow flowing clockwise is generated in the air-conditioned space 9.

[0061] Here, the four blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 at locations corresponding to the four vertices of a rectangle. In other words, the four blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 so as not to be aligned in the same straight line. As a result, the blower system 1 can easily generate a vortex airflow B1 in the air-conditioned space 9 by using the four blowers 3.

[0062] The directionality of the blown air A1 blown out from each of the four blower devices 3 may be such that the air is generated clockwise toward the adjacent blower device 3 when viewed from above. In this case, a clockwise vortex airflow is generated in the air-conditioned space 9.

[0063] In this way, in the agitation mode, the air blowing system 1 suppresses temperature unevenness in the air-conditioned space 9, thereby making the air-conditioned environment of the air-conditioned space 9 comfortable.

[0064] (2.5.2) Spot Mode When the control mode is the spot mode, the control device 4 determines an area in the air-conditioned space 9 where the blown air A1 is to be concentrated, based on the detection result of the human detection unit 7.

[0065] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11 , four human presence sensors 71 are installed in the air-conditioned space 9. Each of the four human presence sensors 71 defines a portion of the air-conditioned space 9 as a detection area R1-R4. Each of the detection areas R1-R4 is an area in which the corresponding human presence sensor 71 can detect a person. The detection area R1 is set below the air blower 3A. The detection area R2 is set below the air blower 3B. The detection area R3 is set below the air blower 3C. The detection area R4 is set below the air blower 3D. That is, the detection area R1 corresponds to the air blower 3A, the detection area R2 corresponds to the air blower 3B, the detection area R3 corresponds to the air blower 3C, and the detection area R4 corresponds to the air blower 3D.

[0066] Based on the human detection data received from the human detection unit 7, the control device 4 determines whether or not a person is present in each of the detection areas R1 to R4.

[0067] When the control mode is the spot mode and the control device 4 determines that a person is present in any of the detection areas R1-R4, the control device 4 controls the air conditioner 2 to supply supply air A11 to the blower device 3 corresponding to the detection area where a person is present and not to supply supply air A11 to the blower device 3 corresponding to the detection area where a person is not present. Furthermore, the control device 4 controls the drive mechanism 33 so that the slide position of the rectifying vane 32 of the blower device 3 corresponding to the detection area where a person is present among the detection areas R1-R4 is positioned in the center of the interior space 310 (see FIG. 9A). That is, the blower device 3 above the detection area blows out the blown air A1 toward directly below the air outlet 31h.

[0068] For example, in FIG. 12 , of the detection areas R1-R4, people H1 and H2 are present in detection area R2, and person H3 is present in detection area R3. In this case, the control device 4 concentrates the blown air A1 in the detection areas R2 and R3. Specifically, the control device 4 controls the air conditioner 2 to supply supply air A11 to the blowers 3B and 3C corresponding to the detection areas R2 and R3, and not to supply supply air A11 to the blowers 3A and 3D corresponding to the detection areas R1 and R4. Furthermore, the control device 4 controls the drive mechanisms 33 so that the slide positions of the straightening vanes 32 of the blowers 3B and 3C corresponding to the detection areas R2 and R3 are positioned in the center of the interior space 310. As a result, the blower 3B blows blown air A1 directly below the air outlet 31h of the blower 3B, adjusting the air-conditioned environment in the detection area R2 where people H1 and H2 are present. Furthermore, the air blower 3C blows out the ventilation air A1 directly below the air outlet 31h of the air blower 3C, thereby adjusting the air-conditioning environment of the detection area R3 where the person H3 is present.

[0069] In this way, in the spot mode, the ventilation system 1 blows out the ventilation air A1 only to the detection areas R1-R4 where a person is present, thereby achieving energy conservation.

[0070] Furthermore, by controlling the directionality of the blower device 3, the blown air A1 is a directional airflow, allowing the blown air A1 to be concentrated in a small area where one (or a small number of) people are present. That is, when performing air conditioning control in spot mode, it is possible to narrow each detection area and adjust the air quality for each small detection area. It is also possible to change the direction in which the blower device 3 blows the blown air A1. As a result, in spot mode, the blower system 1 can provide a comfortable air-conditioned environment for each person, even when people are moving within the air-conditioned space 9 or when multiple people are present in the air-conditioned space 9.

[0071] (3) First Modification Fig. 13 shows the configuration of a ventilation system 1A of a first modification. The ventilation system 1A further includes an operation unit 8. Note that the same components as those in the ventilation system 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0072] The operation unit 8 is a user interface device that accepts user operations (user operations). For example, the operation unit 8 includes at least one of a switch, a touch panel, a keyboard, and a mouse that accept user operations by hand (manual operations), and a microphone that accepts user operations by voice (voice operations).

[0073] The user selects a control mode for the control device 4 by operating the operation unit 8. The operation unit 8 outputs an operation signal including information about the selected control mode to the control device 4. The control device 4 operates in a control mode based on the operation signal and controls the drive mechanisms 33 of each of the multiple air blowers 3. For example, when the user selects the stirring mode by operating the operation unit 8, the control device 4 sets the control mode to the stirring mode and controls the drive mechanisms 33 of each of the multiple air blowers 3 in the stirring mode. Furthermore, when the user selects the spot mode by operating the operation unit 8, the control device 4 sets the control mode to the spot mode and controls the drive mechanisms 33 of each of the multiple air blowers 3.

[0074] (4) Second Modification Fig. 14 shows the configuration of a ventilation system 1B according to a second modification. The ventilation device 3 of the ventilation system 1B further includes a discharge device 36. Note that the same components as those in the ventilation system 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0075] The discharge device 36 is disposed on the inner surface of the air intake port 31g. The discharge device 36 adds the active ingredient to the supply air A11 supplied from the air intake port 31g to the internal space 310. As a result, the blown air A1 containing the active ingredient is blown downward from the air outlet 31h, and the blown air A1 containing the active ingredient is supplied to the air-conditioned space 9.

[0076] Specifically, the discharge device 36 has a pair of electrodes, one of which holds water. The discharge device 36 applies a voltage between the pair of electrodes, generating a discharge between the pair of electrodes, thereby generating radicals as active ingredients and electrostatically atomizing the water held by the electrodes. The discharge device 36 generates nanometer-sized charged water particles containing radicals in the electrostatically atomized water droplets. The radicals are the basis for a variety of useful effects, including sterilization, deodorization, moisturization, freshness preservation, and virus inactivation.

[0077] Alternatively, the discharge device 36 may generate a discharge between a pair of electrodes without holding water in the electrodes. In this case, the discharge device 36 generates air ions as an active ingredient by the discharge generated between the pair of electrodes.

[0078] The discharge device 36 may be disposed in the internal space 310 .

[0079] (5) Third Modification The constricted portion 31i of the air blower 3 may have a configuration that constricts the portion of the internal space 310 on the side of the air outlet 31h so as to narrow the internal space 310 toward the periphery of the air outlet 31h. For example, the constricted portion 31i may have a shape that gradually widens the internal space 310 from the periphery of the air outlet 31h upward.

[0080] Furthermore, the rectifying plate 32 of the blower device 3 is a single plate member, but instead of the rectifying plate 32, a plurality of plate members may be used as the rectifying plate.

[0081] Furthermore, the sliding direction of the rectifying plate 32 is not limited to the left-right direction along the X-axis. That is, the sliding direction of the rectifying plate 32 may be a direction along an imaginary line segment on the XY plane, for example, a front-rear direction along the Y-axis.

[0082] Furthermore, the sliding direction of the rectifying plate 32 is not limited to one direction. That is, the rectifying plate 32 may slide independently in directions along two or more imaginary line segments on the X-Y plane, for example, in the left-right direction along the X axis and the front-rear direction along the Y axis.

[0083] Furthermore, the sliding direction of the rectifying plate 32 is not limited to a direction perpendicular to the Z axis, but may be any direction intersecting the Z axis.

[0084] Further, the drive mechanism 33 of the blower device 3 may use other actuators such as a pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator instead of the electric actuator 33a.

[0085] Furthermore, the structure to which the air conditioner 2 and the blower 3 are attached is not limited to the ceiling 91, but may be another structure such as a stand provided above the air-conditioned space 9.

[0086] Furthermore, the number of blowers 3 may be two or more. If the number of blowers 3 is two or more, the air-conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space 9 can be controlled using various control modes. For example, even if there are two blowers 3, if two blowers 3 arranged side by side in a first direction blow out blown air A1 in opposite directions in a second direction perpendicular to or intersecting the first direction, a vortex airflow can be generated locally in the air-conditioned space 9. In other words, a vortex airflow in the stirring mode can be generated while limiting the number of blowers 3. In the above-described embodiment, the stirring mode and the spot mode are exemplified as control modes, but other control modes, such as an individual mode in which two or more blowers are individually controlled independently, may also be employed.

[0087] Furthermore, if the number of blowers 3 is three or more, it is preferable that the three or more blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 so that they are not lined up in the same straight line. For example, three blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 at positions corresponding to three vertices of a triangle. Furthermore, five blowers 3 are installed on the ceiling 91 at positions corresponding to five vertices of a pentagon. As a result, it becomes easier to generate vortex airflow B1 in the air-conditioned space 9.

[0088] (6) Summary The air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) of the first aspect of the embodiment described above includes a plurality of air blowing devices (3) installed on the ceiling (91) of the air-conditioned space (9). Each of the plurality of air blowing devices (3) includes a housing (31), a rectifying vane (32), and a drive mechanism (33). The housing (31) is formed in a box shape having an internal space (310) and includes an air intake (31g) for feeding supply air (A11) into the internal space (310), an air outlet (31h) for blowing the supply air (A11) that has passed through the internal space (310) into the air-conditioned space (9) as blown air (A1), and a throttle portion (31i) that narrows the internal space (310) toward the periphery of the air outlet (31h). The rectifying vane (32) is disposed between the air intake (31g) and the air outlet (31h). The drive mechanism (33) moves the current plate (32).

[0089] The above-mentioned ventilation system (1, 1A, 1B) can freely adjust the air flow in the air-conditioned space (9).

[0090] In the first aspect, the air supply system (1, 1A, 1B) of the second aspect according to the above-described embodiment preferably further includes an air conditioner (2) that draws in air (A2) from the air-conditioned space (9) and adjusts the temperature of the drawn-in air (A2) to generate conditioned air as supply air (A11).

[0091] The above-described air supply system (1, 1A, 1B) can control the air-conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space (9) by blowing out temperature-adjusted conditioned air as the blown air (A1).

[0092] In the third aspect of the air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) according to the above-described embodiment, in the first or second aspect, the plurality of air blowing devices (3) are preferably two or more air blowing devices (3).

[0093] The above-described air supply system (1, 1A, 1B) can control the air-conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space (9) in various control modes.

[0094] In the fourth aspect of the air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) according to the above-described embodiment, in the first or second aspect, it is preferable that the plurality of air blowing devices (3) are three or more air blowing devices (3).

[0095] The above-described air supply system (1, 1A, 1B) can control the air-conditioning environment of the air-conditioned space (9) in various control modes.

[0096] In the fifth aspect of the ventilation system (1, 1A, 1B) according to the above-described embodiment, in the fourth aspect, it is preferable that three or more ventilation devices (3) are installed on the ceiling (91) so as not to be aligned in the same straight line.

[0097] The above-described air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) makes it easy to generate a vortex airflow (B1) in the air-conditioned space (9).

[0098] The air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) of the sixth aspect according to the above-described embodiment is preferably any one of the first to fifth aspects, further comprising a control device (4) that controls the drive mechanisms (33) of the plurality of air blowers (3). The control device (4) controls the plurality of drive mechanisms (33) to generate a vortex airflow (B1) in the air-conditioned space (9).

[0099] The above-described air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) can suppress temperature unevenness in the air-conditioned space (9) by using the vortex airflow (B1).

[0100] The air supply system (1, 1A, 1B) of the seventh aspect according to the above-described embodiment is preferably the sixth aspect, further comprising a temperature detection unit (6) that detects the temperature distribution in the air-conditioned space (9). The control device (4) controls each of the plurality of drive mechanisms (33) based on the detection result of the temperature detection unit (6).

[0101] The above-described air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) can generate a vortex airflow (B1) when there is a deviation (temperature unevenness) in the temperature distribution in the air-conditioned space (9).

[0102] The air blowing system (1A) of the eighth aspect according to the above-described embodiment is preferably the sixth or seventh aspect, further comprising an operating unit (8) that outputs an operation signal in response to a human operation. The control device (4) controls each of the plurality of drive mechanisms (33) based on the operation signal.

[0103] The above-described air blowing system (1A) can generate a vortex airflow (B1) at any timing by manual operation by a person.

[0104] In the air supply system (1, 1A, 1B) of the ninth aspect according to the above-described embodiment, in any one of the sixth to eighth aspects, the control device (4) preferably has a stirring mode and a spot mode as control modes for respectively controlling the plurality of drive mechanisms (33). The stirring mode is a control mode for generating a vortex airflow (B1) in the air-conditioned space (9). The spot mode is a control mode for concentrating the blown air in a portion of the air-conditioned space (9).

[0105] The above-described air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) can suppress temperature unevenness in the air-conditioned space (9) in the agitation mode, and can achieve energy conservation in the spot mode.

[0106] The air supply system (1, 1A, 1B) of the tenth aspect according to the above-described embodiment is preferably the ninth aspect, further comprising a human detection unit (7) that detects a human being present in the air-conditioned space (9). When the control mode is the spot mode, the control device (4) determines an area in the air-conditioned space (9) where the blown air (A1) is to be concentrated based on the detection result of the human detection unit (7).

[0107] The above-described air blowing system (1, 1A, 1B) can provide a comfortable air-conditioned environment for each person.

[0108] In the ventilation system (1, 1A, 1B) of the eleventh aspect of the above-described embodiment, in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the air intake (31g) is preferably connected to a duct (5) through which the supply air (A11) flows.

[0109] The above-described ventilation system (1, 1A, 1B) can easily supply conditioned air to the ventilation device (3).

[0110] In the air blowing system (1B) of the twelfth aspect according to the above-described embodiment, in any one of the first to eleventh aspects, each of the plurality of air blowing devices (3) preferably further includes a discharge device (36) that generates an active ingredient by electric discharge. The blown air (A1) blown out from the air outlet (31h) contains the active ingredient.

[0111] The above-mentioned air blowing system (1B) can provide useful effects such as deodorization, moisture retention, freshness preservation, and virus inactivation.

[0112] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1, 1A, 1B Air blowing system 2 Air conditioning device 3 Air blowing device 31 Housing 310 Internal space 31g Air intake 31h Air outlet 31i Throttle section 32 Straightening vane 33 Drive mechanism 36 Discharge device 4 Control device 5 Duct 6 Temperature detection section 7 Person detection section 8 Operation section 9 Air-conditioned space 91 Ceiling A1 Blow-in air A11 Supply air A2 Air B1 Vortex air flow

Claims

1. A plurality of air blowing devices are installed on the ceiling of the air-conditioned space, Each of the plurality of blower devices is a housing formed in a box shape having an internal space, the housing having an air intake port for feeding supply air into the internal space, an air outlet port for blowing the supply air that has passed through the internal space into the air-conditioned space as blown air, and a constriction portion that narrows the internal space toward a periphery of the air outlet port; A rectifying plate disposed between the intake port and the blower port; A drive mechanism for moving the flow plate, A control device that controls the drive mechanisms of the plurality of blower devices, The control device controls each of the plurality of drive mechanisms as a control mode. a stirring mode in which the plurality of drive mechanisms are controlled so that the plurality of straightening vanes included in each of the plurality of blowers are biased toward one side of the internal space, thereby generating the vortex airflow in the air-conditioned space; a spot mode in which the blown air is concentrated in a part of the air-conditioned space by controlling at least one of the plurality of drive mechanisms so that at least one of the plurality of rectifying vanes is positioned in the center of the internal space. Ventilation system.

2. The system further includes an air conditioner that draws in air from the air-conditioned space and generates conditioned air by adjusting the temperature of the drawn-in air as the supply air. The ventilation system of claim 1.

3. The plurality of blowers is two or more blowers. The ventilation system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The plurality of blowers is three or more blowers. The ventilation system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The three or more blower devices are installed on the ceiling so as not to be aligned in the same straight line. The ventilation system of claim 4.

6. (delete)

7. A temperature detection unit that detects a temperature distribution in the air-conditioned space is further provided, The control device controls each of the plurality of driving mechanisms based on a detection result of the temperature detection unit. The ventilation system of claim 1.

8. An operation unit that outputs an operation signal in response to a human operation is further provided, The control device controls each of the plurality of drive mechanisms based on the operation signal. The ventilation system of claim 1.

9. (delete)

10. A human detection unit that detects a human being present in the air-conditioned space is further provided, When the control mode is the spot mode, the control device determines an area in the air-conditioned space where the blown air is to be concentrated based on a detection result of the human detection unit. The ventilation system of claim 1.

11. The air inlet is connected to a duct through which the supply air flows. The ventilation system of claim 1.

12. Each of the plurality of blowing devices further includes a discharge device that generates an active ingredient by discharge, The air blown out from the air outlet contains the active ingredient. The ventilation system of claim 1.